Diseases
pulmonary hypertension
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the blood vessels that supply the lungs (pulmonary arteries). It's a serious condition that can damage the right side of the heart. The walls of the pulmonary arteries become thick and stiff, and cannot expand as well to allow blood through.
Symptoms
- blue lips and skin (cyanosis)
- chest pressure or pain
- shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- dizziness or fainting spells (syncope)
- fast pulse or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
Causes
- changes in a gene passed down through families
- use of certain drugs or illegal substances
- other conditions such as hiv infection, chronic liver disease.
Risk factors
- a family history of the condition
- being overweight
- blood-clotting disorders or a family history of blood clots in the lungs
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- chest x-ray.
- magnetic resonance imaging (mri).
- electrocardiogram (ecg).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the blood vessels that supply the lungs (pulmonary arteries). It's a serious condition that can damage the right side of the heart. The walls of the pulmonary arteries become thick and stiff, and cannot expand as well to allow blood through.
What are the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension?
blue lips and skin (cyanosis), chest pressure or pain, shortness of breath (dyspnea)., dizziness or fainting spells (syncope), fast pulse or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
What causes pulmonary hypertension?
changes in a gene passed down through families; use of certain drugs or illegal substances; other conditions such as hiv infection, chronic liver disease.
Which medicines are used for pulmonary hypertension?
bosentan, sildenafil, tadalafil
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